Overview
- Emperor Naruhito said infrastructure has recovered but survivors’ livelihoods and communities still need rebuilding, noting many carry lasting emotional scars.
- He intends to inspect reconstruction in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima this spring and in Kumamoto in the autumn, according to informed sources.
- He pledged to stay close to affected communities by listening to their voices, sharing their joys and sorrows, and praying for the absence of disasters.
- He emphasized teaching lessons from past catastrophes to younger generations as part of broader preparedness for future emergencies.
- He expressed hopes that Princess Aiko will grow through public service, even as Japan’s male-only succession rules bar her from the throne and are backed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.